Visiting Bluffer’s Park and Beach: Your Guide to the Scarborough Bluffs

Bluffers Park and Beach is home to one of Toronto’s best beaches – a large, sandy stretch of beach along Lake Ontario with the towering white cliffs of the Scarborough Bluffs as its backdrop.

I’ve visited the Bluffs in every season, and I always love exploring the park and beach at the bottom of the cliffs. In the summer, you can swim at the beach, relax on the sand, picnic by the water, or walk along the waterfront for some of the best views of the Bluffs.

Best of all, you don’t need a car to visit in the summer. Bluffers Park is accessible by a seasonal TTC bus service that drops you right beside the beach. The bus is a particularly good option on busy summer weekends, when the tiny parking lot fills quickly and even getting to the bluffs by car can be challenging.

There is one important thing to know before you go: the top of the Scarborough Bluffs and Bluffers Park and Beach below are not directly connected. While there are some nice views from the top, most visitors are looking for the park and beach at the bottom.

In this guide, I’ll explain how to get to the Scarborough Bluffs, parking and public transit options, the best time to visit, things to do, and tips for making the most of a day at Bluffers Park and Beach.

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First: Know Which Scarborough Bluffs You Want to Visit

If you’ve never visited the Scarborough Bluffs before, it may not be obvious that seeing the Bluffs from the top and visiting Bluffer’s Park and Beach at the bottom are two very different experiences. The towering cliffs divide the parks and viewpoints above from the waterfront below, and there is no easy access between the two. 

Bluffer’s Park and Beach — Bottom of the Bluffs

Bluffer’s Park and Beach at the bottom of the cliffs is where you’ll find the large sandy swimming beach, waterfront walking trails, picnic and BBQ areas, and some of the best views looking up at the dramatic white cliffs from below. 

It’s one of my favourite places to enjoy the outdoors in Scarborough and an awesome summer activity in Toronto, especially if you’re staying in or live in the east end of the city.

If this is your first visit to the Scarborough Bluffs and you’re picturing a day at the beach with the cliffs towering behind you, this is the part of the Bluffs you want to visit.

Viewing the Scarborough Bluffs From Above

The Scarborough Bluffs stretch along Toronto’s eastern waterfront, with several parks and viewpoints located at the top of the cliffs. These offer a completely different experience from Bluffer’s Park and Beach below.

Cathedral Bluffs Park is one option if you want to see the Bluffs from above. However, views from the top can be more limited than you might expect, as many areas are fenced off for safety.

Most importantly, there is no direct access from the viewpoints at the top of the Bluffs to Bluffer’s Park and Beach below. You cannot simply walk down the cliffs to reach the beach.

How much time do you need? I recommend setting aside at least half a day to enjoy Bluffer’s Park. If you’re planning to spend time at the beach, have a picnic, or explore the walking trails, it’s easy to spend a full day here.

What Is Bluffer’s Beach Like?

Bluffer’s Park Beach is one of my favourite beaches in Toronto. It has a large stretch of soft sand, plenty of room to spread out, and some of the most unique scenery of any beach in the city, with the towering white cliffs of the Scarborough Bluffs in the background.

I recently spent a summer day at the beach, and even with lots of people there, it didn’t feel like everyone was sitting on top of one another. Families and groups had set up their own spots along the sand with umbrellas, tents, chairs, and coolers, while still leaving plenty of open space.

There was enough room for people to play soccer, beach volleyball, and toss footballs around. Kids were paddling along the shoreline and building sandcastles, while other visitors were swimming or simply relaxing on the beach.

The sand is also one of the reasons I like this beach. I find it softer and less rocky than some other Toronto beaches, including Woodbine Beach, which makes it particularly nice if you actually want to spend a full day on the sand.

And then there’s the setting. Looking up from the beach at the dramatic Scarborough Bluffs makes this feel very different from most beaches in Toronto. The cliffs and Lake Ontario create a beautiful backdrop whether you’re swimming, walking along the waterfront, or just relaxing on the sand.

One warning: Lake Ontario can be cold, and for some reason, I always find the water at the Bluffs particularly chilly! Personally, I usually only manage to paddle, but plenty of people swim here throughout the summer.

The beach is supervised by lifeguards during the summer swimming season. When I visited recently, the lifeguards were actively watching the water. At one point, some teenagers paddled too far out on a paddleboard, and a lifeguard rowed out beside them to make sure they returned safely.

Overall, I think the beach at Bluffer’s Park is perfect for a full beach day with family or friends. There’s enough space to settle in with your beach gear, have a picnic, swim, play games, and spend several hours enjoying the waterfront.

Another major advantage is that you get all of this without leaving Toronto. I love beaches outside the city, such as Cobourg Beach, but visiting them can mean driving about 1.5 hours each way. Bluffer’s Park Beach gives you a beautiful sandy beach day right in the city—and you can even get here by public transit.

Can You Swim at Bluffer’s Beach?

Yes, you can swim at Bluffer’s Park Beach when conditions are safe.

During the supervised swimming season, the designated swimming area is marked and monitored by lifeguards. The beach uses coloured flags to indicate current swimming conditions, so always check the flag before getting into the water.

The supervised swimming area at Bluffer’s Park Beach has also received Blue Flag recognition for meeting high standards for water quality, environmental management, environmental education, and safety.

Water quality can change, particularly after heavy rainfall. Toronto Public Health monitors water quality at Toronto’s supervised beaches during the summer, so I recommend checking the current beach water quality before you visit if swimming is an important part of your plans.

Facilities at Bluffer’s Park Beach

Bluffer’s Park has plenty of picnic tables and space to settle in for the day, but the amenities around the beach are fairly limited compared with some of Toronto’s other popular beaches. I recommend arriving prepared rather than assuming you can buy everything you need once you get there.

The permanent washrooms near Bluffer’s Park Beach are currently under renovation. I visited in July 2026 and can confirm that construction is underway, with temporary washrooms available for visitors in the meantime. The renovations are expected to be completed in Fall 2027.

There are no change rooms at the beach, so if you plan to swim, I suggest wearing your bathing suit under your clothes.

Food options near the beach are also limited. When I visited, there was a small food truck selling simple beach-day food such as burgers, hot dogs, fries, bottled water, and pop. Your best option is to pack a picnic, snacks, and plenty of water, especially if you’re planning to stay for the day.

Bluffer’s Park is also not an alcohol-approved park, so don’t plan on bringing alcohol to drink during your beach day.

Overall, come prepared for a beach day rather than expecting a boardwalk lined with shops and restaurants. Pack what you need, claim a spot on the sand, and enjoy one of the most scenic beaches in Toronto.

Things to Do at Bluffer’s Park

Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach day, looking for a scenic waterfront walk, hoping to get out on the water, or simply want to spend a few hours fishing or birdwatching, Bluffer’s Park has something for everyone.

Relax, Swim and Spend the Day at the Beach

The beach is the main attraction at Bluffer’s Park, and it’s easy to spend an entire day here. Bring your beach chairs, umbrella, cooler, and sunscreen, then settle in for a day of swimming, relaxing, playing games on the sand, or simply enjoying the beautiful scenery.

With lifeguards on duty during the summer, plenty of space to spread out, and one of the most scenic backdrops in Toronto, it’s an ideal beach for families, couples, and groups of friends.

Walk Along the Waterfront and Admire the Bluffs

While most people head straight to the beach, don’t overlook the rest of Bluffer’s Park. The park stretches for more than a kilometre along the waterfront, making it well worth exploring beyond the sand.

After spending a few hours at the beach, I usually head over to the western side of the park for a walk and to see more of the park. You can get really close to the Bluffs and wander through a number of scenic trails. 

One of my favourite spots is the Bluffer’s Park Lookout, where you can enjoy beautiful views across Lake Ontario and back toward the towering cliffs.

If you’re visiting in the fall, I highly recommend taking a walk through the park. The colourful autumn leaves against the white bluff formations and blue water create one of my favourite fall landscapes in Toronto.

If you don’t feel like walking the full length of the park, you can always move your car to the second parking lot and explore each section separately.

Have a Picnic or BBQ

Bluffer’s Park is perfect for a picnic. There are lots of picnic tables scattered throughout the park, along with open grassy areas where you can spread out a blanket and enjoy lunch with family or friends.

If you’re planning a BBQ, there are public charcoal BBQ grills available throughout the park on a first-come, first-served basis. You’re also welcome to bring your own BBQ. If your group has more than 25 people or you’re bringing your own BBQ, you’ll need to apply for a permit through the City of Toronto in advance.

If you’re visiting primarily for a picnic or BBQ rather than the beach, I recommend taking the road to the right as you enter the park. This western section is generally quieter than the beach area, making it a more peaceful place to spend the afternoon.

Kayaking, Paddleboarding and Water Sports

Bluffer’s Park is one of the best places in Toronto to try kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding.

When I visited recently, there were lots of people out on the water with their own paddleboards and kayaks, enjoying the calm conditions inside the protected harbour.

If you don’t have your own equipment, you can rent stand-up paddleboards and kayaks right from the beach. I do suggest booking in advance during the summer to guarantee availability, although when I visited on a Friday in July there were still plenty of paddleboards and kayaks available to rent.

Boating and the Marina

Bluffer’s Park is also a popular destination for boaters.

While the marina itself is private, you can visit the waterfront and make a reservation at the marina restaurant if you’d like to enjoy a meal overlooking the harbour.

If you’re bringing your own boat, there is a public concrete boat launch located within Bluffer’s Park. The boat ramp provides easy access into the protected harbour before heading out onto Lake Ontario, and there is ample parking nearby for vehicles with trailers.

Photography and Sunset Views

Whether you’re visiting with a professional camera or just your phone, Bluffer’s Park is one of the most photogenic spots in Toronto.

The towering Scarborough Bluffs provide a spectacular backdrop from almost anywhere along the beach and waterfront, while the marina, boats, and walking trails offer plenty of additional photo opportunities.

If you can time your visit for the evening, sunset is particularly beautiful. Watching the sun dip over Lake Ontario with the cliffs glowing in the warm light is one of the best ways to end a summer day at Bluffer’s Park.

How to Get to Bluffer’s Park and Beach

Address: 1 Brimley Road South, Toronto, ON

Bluffer’s Park is located in Scarborough on Toronto’s east waterfront, about 20 km from downtown Toronto.

While it’s well worth the trip, it’s a little farther from downtown than some of Toronto’s other beaches. If you’re visiting Toronto without a vehicle, it’s worth knowing that Bluffer’s Park isn’t as easy to reach as beaches like Woodbine Beach, which has direct streetcar access and is much more convenient for most tourists.

Taking Public Transit to Bluffer’s Park

If you’re visiting without a car, the easiest way to get to Bluffer’s Park is by taking the seasonal 201 Bluffer’s Park TTC bus. The bus runs between Kennedy Station and Bluffer’s Park from May through September, dropping passengers right inside the park near the beach.

I actually recommend taking the TTC if you’re planning to visit on a summer weekend. Parking at Bluffer’s Park is limited and fills up quickly, so the seasonal bus is often the easiest—and sometimes the only practical—way to reach the beach once police begin restricting vehicle access into the park.

If you’re bringing a bike, TTC buses are equipped with bike racks on the front. When I visited recently, I watched a bus driver patiently show a group of teenagers how to properly load their bikes onto the rack, which was great to see. Bringing a bike is a great way to explore more of the park once you arrive.

Outside of the seasonal beach service, you can still reach the area by taking a regular TTC bus along Brimley Road. However, you’ll need to walk the rest of the way into the park. Before choosing this option, read the section below to see what the walk is actually like.

Driving to Bluffer’s Park

If you’re driving, enter 1 Brimley Road South into your GPS and follow Brimley Road south into the park.

Once you enter Bluffer’s Park, the road splits into two directions.

Going to the main beach? Stay left. This road leads to the main beach parking lot, giving you the quickest access to the sandy beach, supervised swimming area, and waterfront.

Planning a picnic, BBQ, or scenic walk? Turn right instead. This quieter western section of the park provides easier access to picnic areas, walking trails, West Beach, and the Bluffer’s Park Lookout. If you’re not planning to spend time at the beach, I think this is the better parking area.

reat addition to your itinerary if you’re interested in photography, history, or simply exploring another scenic green space nearby.

Can You Walk Down Brimley Road?

Technically, yes—but I wouldn’t recommend it for most visitors. The walk is almost 2.5 km and includes an elevation change of more than 90 metres.

While the route into the park is entirely downhill, you’ll have to make the steep climb back up when you leave. I often see cyclists using Brimley Road as a training hill, but there is no way I could walk back up that hill carrying beach chairs, coolers, umbrellas, and the rest of my beach gear.

If you’re visiting between May and September, the 201 Bluffer’s Park bus is a much better option. Otherwise, driving or cycling will make for a far more enjoyable visit than tackling the hill on foot.

Bluffer’s Park Parking: What You Need to Know

If you’re planning to drive, it’s worth understanding the parking fees, where the parking lots are located, and how quickly they fill during the summer. Knowing what to expect before you arrive can save you a lot of frustration and ensure you can actually get into the parking lot! 

There are two Green P parking lots at Bluffer’s Park.

The Bluffers park beach parking lot #705 is the smaller of the two and is the closest to the main swimming beach. To reach this lot, turn left at the bottom of Brimley as you enter the park. If your goal is to spend the day on the sand, this is the most convenient place to park—but it’s also the first lot to fill up.

The west parking lot #702 is larger and closer to the park, picnic areas, walking trails, and Bluffer’s Park Lookout. If you’re visiting for a walk, picnic, or BBQ, I actually recommend parking here. Even if you’re heading to the beach, this lot is a good backup when the east lot is full, although you’ll have a walk of just over 1 km to reach the sand.

When I visited around noon on a Friday in July, the east beach parking lot was already completely full. Cars were circling the lot waiting for spaces to open up, while the west lot still had parking available.

Scarborough Bluffs Parking Fee

The Scarborough Bluffs parking fee is managed through Toronto’s Green P parking system. Payment is enforced from May 1st to October 31. 

• Monday to Friday before 5 p.m.: Free
• Monday to Friday after 5 p.m.: $2 per half hour (maximum $6)
• Weekends and holidays: $2 per half hour (maximum $12)

You can pay at the Green P pay machines using a credit card or through the Green P app. Parking is free at the Scarborough Bluffs November 1 to April 30.

Although the Scarborough Bluffs parking fee is very reasonable, finding an available parking space is often a much bigger challenge than paying for one—especially on summer weekends.

Access to the Bluffs on Summer Weekends: A Warning

If you’re planning to visit on a hot summer weekend, I recommend arriving before 9 a.m.

Parking at Bluffer’s Park fills extremely quickly on summer weekends. Once both parking lots reach capacity, Toronto Police regularly block vehicle access down Brimley Road to prevent additional traffic from entering the park. From my experience, this can happen as early as 9 a.m. on weekends in the summer.

If your priority is simply spending an easy day at the beach rather than specifically seeing the Scarborough Bluffs, I sometimes recommend Woodbine Beach on weekends instead. It’s much easier to access, has significantly more parking nearby, and is a better option if you don’t want to worry about arriving early.

Best Time to Visit the Scarborough Bluffs

The best time to visit the Scarborough Bluffs really depends on what you’re hoping to do. If you’re planning a beach day, summer is the obvious choice. But if you’re looking for scenic walks and fewer crowds, I actually prefer visiting in the spring or fall.

Summer — Best for Swimming, Worst for Crowds

Summer is the busiest time of year at Bluffer’s Park, and for good reason. Warm weather, lifeguards on duty, and the large sandy beach make it one of Toronto’s best places to spend a day by the water.

This is the only time of year you can take advantage of supervised swimming, the seasonal 201 Bluffer’s Park TTC bus, kayak and paddleboard rentals, and all of the beach amenities.

The downside is the crowds. The beach can get busy and parking lots reach capacity early.  Toronto Police frequently restricts vehicle access into the park as early as 9 a.m. on weekends. If you’re visiting in the summer, I recommend arriving early or taking the TTC instead of driving.

Spring and Fall — My Favourite Seasons for Walking

Although summer is great for the beach, spring and fall are actually my favourite times to visit the Scarborough Bluffs.

The cooler temperatures make it much more comfortable for walking, and the park feels far less crowded than it does during the peak summer months. It’s the perfect time to explore the waterfront trails, visit the Bluffer’s Park Lookout, and enjoy the scenery without worrying about finding a spot on the beach.

Fall is especially beautiful. The colourful leaves contrast with the white Scarborough Bluffs and the deep blue water of Lake Ontario, creating one of my favourite autumn landscapes in Toronto. If you’re visiting mainly to enjoy the scenery or take photos, this is the season I’d recommend.

Spring is also a lovely time to visit as the park comes back to life after winter. While it may still be too chilly for swimming, it’s a great season for walking, birdwatching, and enjoying the waterfront before the summer crowds arrive.

Winter — Quiet and Surprisingly Beautiful

Winter offers a completely different experience at the Scarborough Bluffs.

While the beach isn’t a destination for swimming, the dramatic cliffs covered in snow and the frozen shoreline create a beautiful landscape that’s unlike any other time of year. If you don’t mind bundling up, it’s a peaceful time to explore the park or simply enjoy the views without the crowds.

One thing to keep in mind is that there is only limited winter maintenance throughout the park. When I visited for a winter walk last year, I ended up sinking up to my knees in deep snow in some areas! I’d recommend sticking to the cleared paths unless you’re prepared for deeper snow and winter hiking conditions.

Keep in mind that seasonal services aren’t available during the winter. There are no lifeguards on duty, the bus does not go all the way into the park, and kayak and paddleboard rentals are closed for the season. 

If you’re visiting in winter, go for the scenery and a quiet walk—not for a traditional beach day.

Safety at the Scarborough Bluffs

The Scarborough Bluffs are one of Toronto’s most beautiful natural landmarks, but they can also be dangerous if you ignore posted warnings. A little common sense goes a long way toward having a safe and enjoyable visit.

Never Climb the Bluffs

The Scarborough Bluffs are made up of sand and clay, making them naturally unstable. Every year, emergency crews respond to rescues after people attempt to climb the cliffs or get too close to the edge.

Stay on designated trails and never climb the Bluffs. Not only is it extremely dangerous, but you could also face significant fines for entering restricted areas.

Stay Behind Fences at the Top

If you’re visiting one of the viewpoints at the top of the Scarborough Bluffs, always stay behind the safety fences and barriers.

They aren’t there to block the view—they’re there because the cliff edges can become unstable without warning. Even if you see footprints or social media photos taken beyond the fences, don’t follow them.

Swimming Safety

If you’re planning to swim, only swim within the designated supervised swimming area when lifeguards are on duty. Before heading to the beach, check the current water quality and pay attention to the coloured safety flags, which indicate whether conditions are safe for swimming.

Things to Do Near the Scarborough Bluffs

If you’re making the trip to the Scarborough Bluffs, it’s worth exploring a few other nearby attractions while you’re in the area. Whether you’re looking for more scenic views, beautiful gardens, or unique photo spots, these destinations pair perfectly with a visit to Bluffer’s Park.

Rosetta McClain Gardens

If you’re visiting in the spring or summer, Rosetta McClain Gardens is a beautiful place to stop before or after your time at the Bluffs. The gardens overlook Lake Ontario and are known for their colourful flower displays, making them a peaceful place for a stroll or a picnic.

Guild Park and Gardens

Guild Park and Gardens is one of Toronto’s most unique parks, combining beautiful gardens with historic architectural ruins and public art. It’s a great addition to your itinerary if you’re interested in photography, history, or simply exploring another scenic green space nearby.

Cathedral Bluffs Park

If you want to experience the Scarborough Bluffs from a completely different perspective, head to Cathedral Bluffs Park. Unlike Bluffer’s Park, which lets you enjoy the beach and waterfront below, Cathedral Bluffs Park offers views from the top of the cliffs.

Just keep in mind that the viewpoints are behind safety fences, and there is no direct access down to Bluffer’s Park Beach from here. I recommend visiting Cathedral Bluffs Park if you’d like to experience both the top and bottom of the Scarborough Bluffs during the same trip.

FAQs About Bluffer’s Park and Beach

Is Bluffer’s Park free to visit?

Yes, Bluffer’s Park is free to visit and there is no admission fee. However, parking is managed by Green P and is paid on evenings, weekends, and holidays. See the parking section above for the current rates.

Can you get to Bluffer’s Park without a car?

Yes. From May through September, the seasonal 201 Bluffer’s Park TTC bus runs directly from Kennedy Station into the park. Outside of the seasonal service, you can still reach the area by TTC, although it involves a long walk down Brimley Road.

Are there washrooms at Bluffer’s Park?

Yes. The permanent washrooms near the beach are currently being renovated, and temporary washroom facilities are available while construction is underway. There are also washrooms in the western park, close to the parking lot.

Are dogs allowed at Bluffer’s Park and Beach?

Yes, dogs are welcome in Bluffer’s Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. There are no official off-leash areas within the park.

Dogs are not permitted on Bluffer’s Park Beach, even if they’re leashed.

If you’re visiting with your dog, be sure to follow the park rules. By-law officers regularly patrol the park and often issue tickets during the busy summer months.

Can you walk from the top of the Scarborough Bluffs to Bluffer’s Park Beach?

No. Although they’re part of the same Scarborough Bluffs, there is no direct trail from the viewpoints at the top of the cliffs down to Bluffer’s Park Beach. If you want to experience both, you’ll need to drive, cycle, or take public transit between the two locations via Brimley Road.

Are the Scarborough Bluffs Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! If you’re looking for one of the most beautiful places in Toronto to spend a day outdoors, I think the Scarborough Bluffs are well worth visiting.

Between the sandy beach, dramatic white cliffs, waterfront trails, and beautiful views over Lake Ontario, it’s unlike anywhere else in the city. Whether you want to relax on the beach, go for a scenic walk, enjoy a picnic with family and friends, or simply admire the scenery, Bluffer’s Park has something for everyone.

That said, it’s worth planning your visit. Summer weekends can be extremely busy, parking fills up early, and the park is a little farther from downtown than some of Toronto’s other beaches. If you arrive prepared and know what to expect, you’ll have a much better experience.

I’ve visited the Scarborough Bluffs in every season, and no matter the time of year, I always find something new to enjoy. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to explore more of the park, I hope this guide helps you make the most of your trip.